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Russell Cave National Monument: A Journey Through Time

Discover 10,000 years of human history at Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport, Alabama. Explore ancient cultures and natural beauty.

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Explore Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport, Alabama, a significant archaeological site preserving over 10,000 years of human history. Walk the boardwalk to the cave shelter, visit the museum, and hike the nature trail to discover the stories of early North American inhabitants.

A brief summary to Russell Cave National Monument

  • Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Gilbert Grosvenor Visitor Center to view artifacts and learn about the cave's history through exhibits and a short film.
  • Take the ranger-guided tour to the cave shelter to gain insights into the lives of the prehistoric inhabitants.
  • Hike the 1.2-mile Nature Trail for a scenic walk through the woodlands surrounding the cave.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the monument is home to a diverse range of bird species.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Russell Cave National Monument is located at 3729 Co Rd 98, Bridgeport, AL 35740. From Bridgeport, take County Road 98 west for approximately 4 miles. The entrance to the monument will be on the left. There is ample free parking available at the visitor center. Note that cell service can be unreliable in this rural area.

Unlock the Best of Russell Cave National Monument

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Discover more about Russell Cave National Monument

Russell Cave National Monument, nestled at the foot of Montague Mountain near Bridgeport, Alabama, offers a unique glimpse into the lives of prehistoric cultures in the southeastern United States. This archaeological site contains one of the most complete records of human occupation, spanning from approximately 10,000 BCE to 1650 CE. The cave itself served as a shelter for Native Americans across various periods, including the Paleo, Archaic, Woodland, and Mississippian. Archaeological excavations have unearthed a wealth of artifacts, including stone tools, pottery, and evidence of fire pits, providing invaluable insights into their way of life. The cave's large main entrance offered protection from the elements, while the surrounding forest provided resources for food, tools, and fuel. Visitors can explore the Gilbert Grosvenor Visitor Center, which features a museum with artifacts and exhibits detailing the cave's history and the cultures that inhabited it. A short film tells the story of the early inhabitants, and ranger-guided tours to the cave shelter are available. A boardwalk leads to the cave entrance, and a 1.2-mile nature trail offers a scenic hike through the surrounding woodlands. Keep an eye out for diverse bird species and other wildlife. While entry into the cave is not permitted to protect the archaeological site, the observation deck provides an excellent vantage point. Russell Cave National Monument is a place where you can connect with the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of human adaptation and survival.

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